Fructosamine (Serum)
This test measures the average level of sugar (glucose) attached to proteins in your blood over the past 2–3 weeks. It helps assess long-term blood sugar control, especially useful for people with diabetes.
["Helps track how well your blood sugar is managed over time."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 3233-4
- Short code
- Fact XII PPP Chro-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Fact XII PPP Chro-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- plasma
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA) or Green-top (Heparin)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- chromo
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters for Diabetes Management
Unlike a single blood glucose measurement, fructosamine reflects your body’s average glucose levels over a longer period. This can be particularly useful for understanding trends in blood sugar control, especially in people with diabetes who may not have daily blood glucose monitoring.
How the Test Works
Your blood sample is tested using an immunoassay method to detect proteins that have been glycosylated (sugar molecules attached). The test quantifies these modified proteins to estimate your average blood sugar levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm or hand to draw blood. If you’re on insulin or other diabetes medications, let your healthcare provider know before the test.
Possible Results and Interpretation
Results are typically reported in micromoles per liter (µmol/L) or milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Your healthcare provider will compare your result to your baseline or target range to determine if your blood sugar management needs adjustment.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Fructosamine levels are valuable for monitoring long-term blood sugar control in people with diabetes. It can help identify whether your glucose levels are consistently high or low, even if daily readings fluctuate. Lower than expected levels may indicate poor glucose control, while higher levels may suggest hyperglycemia.
Short name
Fructosamine Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes fructosamine levels to change?
Can fructosamine levels be affected by diet or exercise?
Is fructosamine the same as HbA1c?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy